The temporary pause in construction activity for the government’s border security plans in Big Bend National Park has been extended.
On Friday, U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia heard arguments in a lawsuit against the federal government filed by a local indigenous group and a recreation business. The group is suing to stop construction, arguing that the federal government’s plans threaten the religious practices of the People of La Junta for Preservation. They also argue the plans would affect cultural and archaeological sites and impact the region’s tourism industry.
At the end of the hearing, Garcia called for a pause on QUOTE “ground-disturbing” activity within the national park through Sept. 15.
The Trump administration’s $1.7 billion border security plan for Big Bend National Park involves vehicle barriers, patrol roads and new surveillance technology.
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Tomorrow (TUESDAY), Texas gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa will be in Presidio for a campaign event in the lead up to the November election.
Hinojosa, a Democratic state lawmaker, is challenging incumbent Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. Her rally will be Tuesday, September 1 at Benito Hall in Presidio from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
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Also tomorrow (TUESDAY), the City of Alpine will hold its next city council meeting.
As part of the meeting, councilmembers will receive a presentation from the Big Bend Regional Hospital District regarding program and service offerings. Council members are also set to discuss a proposal for economic development services and will also talk about the proposed property tax rate.
The council meets at 5:30 p.m. at the city council chambers.
You can find a copy of the agenda at cityofalpine.com.
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The statewide campaign to reduce the mortality rates of migratory birds gets underway this week.
Starting Saturday, Sept. 5, you can take part in “Lights Out, Texas” and help birds during their migratory season by turning off all non-essential lights at your home from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. each night.
The “Lights Out Texas” program asks you to not use landscape lighting for trees or gardens where birds may be resting. You can also close blinds at night to reduce the amount of light being emitted from windows.
The campaign continues until October 29.
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Next week, the Museum of the Big Bend will host a talk with Dr. Joe Kotarba of Texas State University about his journey into the world of “health and life in Texas’ Big Bend region.”
Kotarba will talk about the challenges of accessing health care in Alpine and the wider Big Bend. Hear real stories of people navigating distance, culture, family, and community in the search of care.
The talk is Thursday, Sept. 10 at 11:30 a.m. at the Museum of the Big Bend. Lunch will be provided and registration is not required.
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At the end of the month (SEPTEMBER), St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marfa will host a golf tournament fundraiser.
The tournament will be a two-man scramble. Entry is $120 per team with lunch included.
All proceeds go to the operation of St. Mary’s Church.
The two-man scramble takes place Sept. 26 with registration beginning at 8:00 a.m. and the shotgun start at 10:00 a.m.
For more information, contact Eddie Pallarez at 432-295-3105.
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In October, the regional Archives Bazaar will be hosted by Sul Ross State University.
The annual event sees dozens of archives, libraries, museums, and cultural repositories from across West Texas and New Mexico join forces. Together, they’ll present archival materials from throughout the southwest borderlands.
The event is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in borderland history, culture, heritage, and legacy.
The regional Archives Bazaar will be Friday, Oct. 9 at the Morgan University Center on the Sul Ross Campus.
This has been your local and area news report for KVLF 98.7 FM, 1240 AM and KALP 92.7 FM
Local news can be found on our website at bigbendradio.com.